Dress to the dress code
Your invitation usually states the desired dress code. This means the couple would prefer the guests to dress in a certain way. To avoid offending anyone, it's wise to stick to it. If no specific wishes are known, it's better to appear overdressed. A well-fitting men's suit in a neutral colour (such as dark blue or anthracite) is fine for almost any wedding. Of course, you can also take the season into account. At a summer wedding, for example, you can put together a lighter outfit.
Be on time
Nothing is more embarrassing than trying to sneak into the audience halfway through the ceremony. Believe us, sooner or later the couple will find out. So make sure you know well in advance where you need to be, what time it starts and how to get there. Check a day ahead whether there are roadworks and check for traffic jams on the day itself. It's polite to be present 15 minutes before the ceremony begins. Should you be late due to unforeseen circumstances, wait for the right moment. Whatever you do, don't disrupt the ceremony!
Use your phone more mindfully
A phone that goes off during the ceremony is a disruption that's easy to prevent. It also shows little respect for the occasion. So put your phone on silent before the proceedings begin. Should you want to take photos, make sure you've switched off the flash. That way the professional photographer can work undisturbed. In addition, it's rude to make recordings and images without the couple's permission. While taking photos or recordings, it's important not to block anyone's view.
Respect the ceremony
It doesn't matter whether you're religious or not; for most couples the wedding is a serious occasion. Follow any instructions for your seat. Don't make unnecessary noise by having (whispered) conversations with other guests or by the rustling of sweet wrappers. In addition, you show respect by standing up when the couple enters and not leaving early (unless there's an emergency). These tips also apply when the ceremony isn't held in a church.
Respect the guests
There's a good chance you're meeting most of the guests for the first time. So it wouldn't be wise to immediately start conversations about politics, religion or other controversial topics. Always be polite and friendly. Listen actively and show interest in your conversation partner. Are you nervous around strangers? A smile is disarming and also puts others at ease. Don't know what to talk about? Mention an aspect of the ceremony, the decoration or the food that you noticed positively, and let the conversation flow naturally.
Giving a speech or toast
Have you been asked to give a speech? Then try to resist the temptation to tell an embarrassing story or make suggestive jokes about the groom or bride. Unless the couple has specifically asked for it, of course. But even when you have permission, it's wise not to cross the boundaries of decency. So avoid your story becoming too crude. Keep your story short and positive, wishing the couple lots of happiness and love. It goes without saying, of course, that you prepare your speech well.
